Lead Movable Bridge​/Structural Engineer

Overview

Lead Movable Bridge / Structural Engineer for WSP USA’s Movable Bridge Structures group in the National Bridges & Structures Practice. The role is based in our Chicago office or any U.S. office, and operates under a hybrid‑workplace model.

• Lead design, plan development tasks and perform structural analysis and design.
• Actively maintain project scope, design changes and project budget.
• Mentor and develop junior staff.
• Coordinate with project stakeholders and perform independent QC/QA reviews.
• Visit clients to build business relationships and keep them informed.
• Manage planning and engineering projects including Fixed and Movable Bridge Design (Highway and Railroad) and Transit structures.
• Oversee data collection, analysis, and report preparation from site surveys, blueprints, and other documentation.
• Apply high‑level structural and civil engineering techniques and keep current with industry practices.
• Lead cross‑functional teams to execute project work, manage budgets, track hours, and monitor costs.
• Conduct complex investigations and inspections of site conditions, facilities, and structures for compliance with regulations.
• Develop construction plans, specifications, cost estimates and safety phasing plans in coordination with owners and other disciplines.
• Participate in design, construction, rehabilitation, and remediation projects from inception to completion.
• Assist with engineering review of permit applications, plans and specifications, and construction inspections.
• Meet with public or private entities to discuss engineering challenges and program opportunities.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations that explain research, findings, and recommendations.
• Identify additional business development opportunities and develop a client base.
• Collaborate with professionals from multiple disciplines on projects and proposal opportunities.
• Adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct, ethical decision‑making and conduct responsibilities.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Structural or Civil Engineering or closely related discipline.
• 7 to 10 years of post‑education experience in engineering with prior structural design experience.
• Engineer license required (multi‑state preferred).
• High proficiency in structural engineering principles, practices and design/build application.
• Extensive experience in infrastructure planning, design and program/construction management.
• Strong knowledge of relevant structural and civil construction laws, codes, regulations and compliance practices.
• Capability to perform technical computations and comparisons against regulations.
• Proficiency with technical writing, office automation, discipline‑specific design software (e.g., Larsa, STADD, MIDAS, CSiBridge, Bentley Open Bridge, MDX, AASHTOWare Bridge Design/Rating, Micro Station).
• Experience with inspections and investigations of construction and design aspects, applying regulations and policies.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Strong self‑leadership and the ability to interact effectively with clients, regulators and project teams.
• Independent work ethic with guidance to mid‑level or senior team members; strict adherence to QA/QC.
• Well‑developed critical thinking and problem‑solving skills for complex analysis.
• Commitment to workplace safety and adherence to health, safety, drug/alcohol, and harassment policies.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project needs.

• Master’s Degree in Engineering.
• Strong technical skills in structural analysis and design of different bridge types, including movable bridges.
• Capability to serve as key team member for major transit and rail opportunities.
• PE license required; SE within one year is a plus.
• Familiarity with AASHTO design criteria (LFD & LRFD) and DOT work.
• Team‑oriented experience on challenging projects.
• FHWA – NHI – Safety Inspection of In‑Service Bridges training and Fracture Critical Bridges Training are advantages.
• Familiarity with AREMA design criteria and Railroad experience are advantages.

Coverage includes…